Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2026-04-27T12:01:00

(BPT) – Across the country, developers are breathing new life into abandoned hospitals, historic churches, vacant offices and deserted malls, transforming these underutilized buildings into apartments, hotels and mixed-use spaces through adaptive reuse strategies.

Adaptive reuse is an attractive option for many developers and building owners and has been steadily gaining popularity over the last couple of decades. According to RentCafe, in 2024 alone, close to 25,000 apartments from adaptive reuse projects were completed in the U.S., representing a 50% increase from the prior year.

Why has this trend taken off? Because adaptive reuse repurposes existing buildings instead of demolishing them and starting fresh, check out this YouTube link for a method that can lead to lower construction costs, speed project delivery, enhance sustainability and extend the life of existing structures. That said, adaptive reuse comes with its own challenges, especially when it comes to plumbing.

Plumbing challenges when converting existing buildings

Converting structures originally designed as offices or other commercial purposes into residential or hospitality spaces often presents plumbing challenges. Because these buildings weren’t built to accommodate additional wet areas like bathrooms, kitchens or laundry rooms, installing traditional below-floor plumbing can require extensive demolition or costly infrastructure changes.

For example, when the project team at ABA Constructors Inc. was tasked with reimagining a Clearwater, Florida, office property’s plumbing infrastructure to support residential and hospitality demands, they knew they had quite the challenge on their hands.

The mixed-use project called for approximately 80 apartments and 40 hotel units, requiring more than 110 bathrooms. The original structure of the building was not designed to support this level of plumbing density. Without a closely spaced plumbing stack, a traditional gravity plumbing system was a non-starter.

Another issue that the team had to deal with was the fact that multiple floors remained occupied by office tenants with active leases. Traditional plumbing methods would have required cutting into structural concrete slabs, disrupting tenants below.

Had the ABA team decided to move forward with below-floor plumbing, the contractors would have had to install all the plumbing at night or shut down the occupied spaces. However, they decided to move forward with a creative, alternative method that allowed the team to avoid unnecessary and disruptive demolition: Above-floor plumbing.

How a flexible plumbing solution makes adaptive reuse possible

Above-floor plumbing solutions — like grinder and drain pumps — allow developers, architects, engineers and contractors to add wet areas without breaking concrete floors. In the case of the Clearwater building, the ABA team chose to install three different SFA Saniflo above-floor plumbing systems to address the multiple needs of the reuse project.

When adding plumbing to the converted two-bedroom, two-bath apartments, ABA installed a Sanibest Pro grinder system (the workhorse of the Saniflo line) behind each room’s toilet to handle that fixture’s wastewater as well as gray water drainage from the nearby shower and bathroom sink. The team also used this grinder solution in each guest bathroom of the hotel area of the building.

Meanwhile, one Sanicom 1 commercial-grade drain pump was installed to move the wastewater from the added laundry facilities. This drain pump model is designed to handle high-temperature gray water in demanding residential and commercial applications.

Finally, the contractors installed a Saniswift Pro drain pump to move wastewater from the kitchen sink. While this powerful, compact gray water drain pump is typically recommended for residential projects, it easily met the needs for this adaptive reuse project.

Preservation and innovation aren’t mutually exclusive. By using a creative solution like above-floor plumbing, contractors and other adaptive reuse project stakeholders can add modern conveniences to existing buildings, giving them a new purpose. To learn more about above-floor plumbing and how these solutions have made challenging or impossible projects feasible, visit SFASaniflo.com.

2026-04-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – When temperatures drop, the last thing homeowners want to worry about is whether their furnace will keep up.

Your furnace works quietly in the background all season long, helping ensure every room stays comfortable, daily routines run smoothly, and your home is protected when the weather turns harsh. Planning ahead means avoiding last-minute worries when temperatures drop.

And with energy costs continuing to rise, preparing for the future matters more than ever. Choosing an energy-efficient furnace today helps ensure dependable comfort tomorrow, while helping manage long-term heating costs year after year.

Heat your home, not your energy bill

To help homeowners stay comfortable while using less energy, Lennox has introduced a new high-efficiency gas furnace designed to deliver reliable warmth, quiet performance and added peace of mind.

What makes it different?

• Smart safety features that can sense if something isn’t right and respond automatically to help protect your home.
• Exceptional efficiency, converting nearly all the fuel it uses into heat for your home. That means less waste and more comfort.
• Remarkably quiet operation, so quiet, you may forget it’s even running.

The best of both worlds: Comfort and efficiency

For even greater flexibility, the furnace can be paired with an electric heat pump. Together, they can automatically switch between gas and electric power to help keep your home comfortable while using energy in the smartest way possible.

Your whole home, working smarter together

This furnace becomes even more powerful when connected with other Lennox home comfort products:

• A Lennox smart thermostat that lets you control your home’s temperature and monitor your system from anywhere.
• Whole-home air purification that helps reduce airborne particles and ensures consistently cleaner air in every corner of your home.
• System alerts and reminders that help you stay on top of maintenance and even allow you to share updates with your local Lennox dealer if something needs attention.

Together, these products help create a home that feels comfortable, clean and reliable, all year long.

Comfort you can feel, confidence you can count on

Energy efficiency and peace of mind don’t happen by accident. They come from choosing home comfort equipment designed to look out for you and your family every day.

To learn more and find a Lennox dealer, visit Lennox.com.

2026-04-21T07:01:00

(BPT) – As temperatures rise and lawns come out of winter dormancy, the first lawn mowing of the season becomes a critical reset point for overall turf health. Lawn care experts say how homeowners approach this first cut can influence everything from root development to how well the lawn holds up against heat, drought and weeds in the months ahead.

“Early in the season, your lawn is transitioning into an active growth phase, so it’s more sensitive to stress,” said Jason Wilk, senior product manager at ECHO Incorporated. “How you handle that first mow can either support that transition or set it back.”

Clear debris and address winter damage first

A strong start begins with clearing what winter left behind. Sticks, leaves and compacted debris don’t just get in the way, they can block airflow and sunlight at the soil level, leading to slower, uneven growth.

Before that first mow, Wilk recommends walking the yard to remove buildup and assess any light damage to shrubs, small branches or overgrowth. For quick cleanup, a battery-powered blower like the ECHO DPB-2500 Blower can efficiently clear debris, while a compact pruning tool like the ECHO DHS-3006 Pruning Saw is well-suited for trimming small limbs and winter dieback.

Taking the time to fully reset the yard before mowing creates a more consistent surface and reduces the likelihood of damaging equipment during that first pass.

Prep your equipment to protect the lawn

After months of sitting idle, lawn equipment should be checked to ensure it’s operating properly before the first use. Even small maintenance oversights can impact cut quality and stress your lawn during a critical growth period.

“A sharp blade doesn’t just improve how your lawn looks, it helps protect it,” Wilk explained. “Clean cuts heal faster, while torn grass blades can lead to moisture loss and make the lawn more vulnerable to disease.”

Before your first mow, Wilk recommends running through a quick equipment check:

• Inspect and sharpen mower blades: Dull blades tear grass instead of cutting it cleanly, which can lead to browning and increased susceptibility to disease
• Check battery charge and connections (for battery-powered models): Ensuring a full charge and secure connection helps deliver consistent power throughout the mow
• Check and top off engine oil (for gas-powered mowers): Proper lubrication helps ensure smooth operation and prevents unnecessary wear
• Clean or replace the air filter: A clogged filter can reduce engine efficiency and impact performance
• Inspect the deck and undercarriage: Built-up grass or debris can affect airflow and cut quality
• Test safety features and controls: Making sure everything is functioning properly before use helps avoid interruptions once you begin mowing

Taking a few minutes to address these basics helps ensure more consistent performance and a cleaner, healthier cut from the start.

Control the first mow and trim lawn edges

One of the most common early-season mistakes is cutting too much at once. While overgrowth is normal coming out of winter, removing too much of the grass blade can shock the plant and weaken its ability to recover.

Turf experts widely follow the “one-third rule,” meaning no more than one-third of the grass blade should be removed at a time.

“People want that fresh-cut look right away, but taking too much off too quickly can set your lawn back,” Wilk added. “A more gradual approach helps it recover and grow in more evenly.”

For areas a lawn mower can’t easily reach, like around trees, fences and tight edges, a string trimmer such as the ECHO DSRM-225 String Trimmer can help create a clean, finished look without overcutting those more delicate areas.

Choose the right lawn mower for early spring conditions

Early-season lawns are often thicker and uneven, making that first mow more demanding than routine cuts later in the year. Using a lawn mower that can maintain consistent power and cutting performance in these conditions helps prevent uneven results and reduces unnecessary stress on the lawn.

Walk-behind mowers like the ECHO DLM-2100SP Self-Propelled Lawn Mower are designed to handle these conditions with features like a brushless motor for gas-like power and a self-propelled system that helps maintain a steady pace.

This type of consistency is especially important during the first mow, where uneven cutting can impact how the lawn fills in throughout the season.

“Consistency is key on that first mow,” Wilk noted. “You want a mower that can handle those early-season conditions without forcing you to overwork parts of the lawn.”

Dial in mowing height to support root development

Mower height plays a major role in how your lawn performs throughout the season. For many common cool-season grasses, experts recommend maintaining a height between 2.5 to 4 inches, especially early in the season when the lawn is still establishing.

Keeping grass slightly taller helps retain moisture, encourage deeper root systems and improve the lawn’s ability to withstand heat and weeds over time. Wilk recommends erring on the taller side early in the season, allowing the lawn to build strength before gradually adjusting to a maintenance height.

Time your mow and finish clean

Conditions on mowing day can directly impact results. Cutting wet grass often leads to clumping, uneven distribution and added strain on equipment, while also increasing the likelihood of soil compaction.

Waiting until the lawn is dry allows for a cleaner, more precise cut and helps maintain the integrity of both the grass and the mower. After mowing, using a blower like the DPB-2500 to clear clippings from driveways and sidewalks can help complete the job and maintain a polished look.

Start strong to simplify the season ahead

Taking a more intentional approach to the first mow creates long-term advantages. By improving cut quality, reducing stress and using the right tools, homeowners can set their lawns up for more consistent growth and easier yard maintenance.

With the right preparation, that first mow becomes less about catching up after winter and more about setting the pace for a healthier, more resilient lawn all season long.

2026-04-10T08:01:01

(BPT) – In an era of constant digital transformation and economic unpredictability, staying ahead of life’s “what-ifs” is a meaningful effort. Whether it’s a sudden home appliance breakdown or a sophisticated digital scam, the sheer volume of “to-dos” may lead to decision fatigue.

“Protecting your assets requires a strategy. With an AARP membership, our members have access to a curated list of special benefits that take the guesswork out of safeguarding what matters most to them,” said Jeff Gaboury, Senior Vice President of Financial Products and Services at AARP. “By leveraging these benefits, our members can cut through any potential decision fatigue and build a comprehensive safety net that helps to protect their home, families and futures.”

But protecting your hard-earned assets can be handled with ease and confidence. AARP member benefits give you access to practical, everyday tools to help safeguard your home, your identity, your family’s future and more. By focusing on these four steps, you can build a safety net that is both robust and manageable:

1. Protect your most valuable asset

Your home is most likely your biggest investment, and like many homeowners, you’ve probably been caught off guard by the “hidden” costs of maintenance. Beyond standard insurance, a home warranty can help protect your systems and appliances. AARP members can save $36 or more on an American Home Shield^® home warranty, which can help cover things in your home that break down over time, like the refrigerator, dishwasher, HVAC system and water heater. Plus, this discount can be combined with any valid sitewide promotional offer to save you more. Terms apply. See shopping.ahs.com/aarp for details. This offer is valid for only new American Home Shield members. See the plan agreement at ahs.com/contracts/ for coverage details, service fees, limitations and exclusions. Coverage limits and charges for non-covered items may apply.

Another great way to protect your home is with Homeowners Insurance. Get access to information on discounts for house and condo insurance to help protect your most valuable assets, with customized coverage and benefits designed especially for AARP members. You can also save on car insurance, including savings when bundling home and auto policies.

2. Guard Your identity

Guarding your identity is very important, and keeping it secure should feel seamless, not stressful. While technology is always changing, protecting yourself is easier than ever with LifeLock. AARP members can save 44% off identity theft protection plans that detect and alert you to threats you could miss on your own. *Terms apply.

3. Build your financial plan with confidence

Financial security isn’t just about saving, it’s about informed growth. AARP members can save up to $144 per year on Yahoo Finance Premium Plans, which include financial tools and research to help build wealth and retire comfortably. You can analyze your portfolio’s risk and performance, get expert stock picks, dividend analysis, risk insights and customizable screeners for confident long-term investing.

4. Plan for the future and establish your legacy

Everyone wants the peace of mind that comes with knowing loved ones will be taken care of, no matter what happens. AARP members have access to information on personalized long-term care options to find solutions to help protect your retirement assets and prepare for the future. AARP members also have access to information on Life Insurance Plans to make sure that you’re taking care of the ones you care about most.

The last piece of the puzzle is creating an estate plan. AARP members receive a 20% discount on trusts, wills and estate planning documents with Trust & Will; you have access to customer support, customizable documents and one year of free unlimited updates. By leveraging your member benefits and practical tools from your AARP membership, you can ensure that your home, finances and family remain secure in an ever-changing world.

*May not be available in every state.

AARP and its affiliates are not insurers, agents, brokers or producers. AARP member benefits are provided by third parties, not by AARP or its affiliates. Providers pay a royalty fee to AARP for the use of its intellectual property. These fees are used for the general purposes of AARP. Some provider offers are subject to change and may have restrictions. Please contact the provider directly for details.

2026-04-03T07:01:00

(BPT) – Outdoor living isn’t just a trend; it’s a priority. According to the International Casual Furnishings Association, 77% of U.S. homeowners wish they spent more time outside, and nearly 60% plan to invest in their backyards this year, prioritizing durability and practicality.

“Homeowners want outdoor spaces that deliver style with substance that can stand up to everyday life,” said Jodi Lee, senior vice president of marketing for Trex Company, the world’s #1 brand of wood-alternative decking and railing. “We’re seeing an increased focus on materials built to take on sun, moisture and changing climates, so backyards aren’t just beautiful, they’re built to last.”

Here are six trends set to define outdoor living this year:

1. Micro-Resort Living: Everyday Escapes at Home

Backyards are evolving into resort-style retreats with zones for yoga, dining and entertaining. Outdoor kitchens, ambient lighting, fire features and water elements create a vacation vibe at home. Thanks to low-maintenance, durable materials like Trex composite decking and all-weather furnishings, these outdoor retreats don’t just look like a vacation, they feel like one, too.

2. Back to Earth: Warm Browns and Mixed Materials

Warm, earthy tones are making a comeback, replacing the cool grays that have dominated for years. Sun-kissed browns add richness and sophistication to any outdoor space. Homeowners are also mixing materials like stone, wicker and metals, and using deck boards of varying widths to create personalized, architecturally interesting layouts.

3. Climate-Resilient Materials Are a Must

From sun-drenched backyards to moisture-rich coastal settings, homeowners want materials that can stand up to the elements. Composite decking rises to the challenge, offering marine-grade durability and even heat-mitigating properties that keep surfaces cooler under the sun — all while maintaining long-lasting beauty and performance through extreme weather and changing seasons.

4. Small but Stunning: Maximizing Every Square Foot

Homeowners are embracing smaller, highly curated outdoor spaces that pack a visual punch and deliver maximum functionality. Creative design choices like layered textures, built-in seating and bold color accents can make even a modest patio or deck feel luxurious. Installing an under-deck drainage system, like Trex^® RainEscape^®, can instantly double outdoor living area by keeping the space under the deck dry and usable as a patio, spa area or fully functional outdoor room.

5. View-Optimization: Sleek Railing Solutions

Modern railing systems featuring sleek aluminum, cable and glass enhance sightlines while providing durability. These low-profile options allow homeowners to enjoy uninterrupted views without compromising safety or style.

6. Privacy, Please: Fencing and Screens

Privacy is now a design statement. Pergolas, shade screens and low-maintenance fencing create enclosed, personal retreats while maintaining aesthetics. With so many options, privacy features are no longer just functional, they’re design statements helping to transform backyards into personal sanctuaries that are both beautiful and highly livable.

Across all of these trends, one theme stands out: performance is powering design and giving homeowners more ways to create outdoor spaces that are beautiful, functional and built to last. For more outdoor living ideas and inspiration, visit Trex.com.

2026-04-02T08:03:00

(BPT) – If you’re refreshing your kitchen or bath, you’re probably looking for upgrades that look great, last for years, provide added functionality, and tread a little lighter on the planet. Kohler offers a surprisingly broad range of solutions — from water-saving fixtures to recycled-material designs — making it easier to build a greener home without sacrificing style or comfort.

Choosing sustainable solutions not only reduces environmental impact but also elevates the ease and functionality of your home, helping support a more balanced and wellness-focused daily routine. Below are ideas for sustainable, wellness-focused additions for your next renovation.

Repurposed for beautiful impact

Since 2017, Kohler WasteLAB, an innovation incubator within Kohler Co. that transforms repurposed industrial materials into design-forward handcrafted products, has turned byproducts into functional surfaces and home fixtures.

This innovative approach redefines sustainable luxury — embracing imperfection, material authenticity and expressive craft for the modern home with products like these:

• Transcendence by Kohler WasteLAB x Nada Debs is a stunning tile collection crafted from nearly 100% recycled materials sourced from Kohler manufacturing processes, balancing traditional form, contemporary craft and sustainable innovation. The collection’s new finishes — Emerald and Amber — join the existing Lake and Turquoise palette. The collection is distributed by Ann Sacks and is available in all Ann Sacks showrooms.
• Kohler WasteLAB Vox bathroom sinks are made using over 70% recycled materials. Rectangular Vox vessel sinks offer a refined, minimalist form for everyday use, with a soft, stone-like surface and durable construction. The sink’s sleek, contemporary design features a deep, symmetrical basin with rounded edges, available in dark gray Ashen or lighter Eggshell.
• Kohler WasteLAB planters are designed to elevate indoor or outdoor spaces, moving beyond conventional silhouettes with a more expressive, enduring alternative in sculptural form. Each planter basin is molded from 75% reclaimed materials chosen for their strength, texture and visual character, paired with a cast iron stand that naturally develops a rich patina over time. The planters bring nature to any space, which fosters mental well-being and stress reduction.

Water savings with smarter showerheads

Kohler’s showerheads demonstrate the company’s mission to help people live gracious, healthy and sustainable lives by putting wellness and sustainability at the center of daily showering, along with real-time water savings.

Innovations like the Anthem EvoCycle smart shower system recirculate and filter water in a closed-loop mode, reducing water use by up to 80% while delivering a full, comfortable spray. Meanwhile, the new Kohler Parallel showerhead operates at just 1.25 gallons per minute (gpm) — half the flow of a standard 2.5 gpm showerhead. Parallel’s efficiency uses 50% less water and carries the WaterSense^® label, signifying it meets strict EPA standards for performance and reduced water usage.

Improved sustainability and well-being with an upgraded toilet

All Kohler Smart Toilets are EPA WaterSense^® certified and operate at 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) and below.

Veil smart toilets offer an impressive 0.8 and 1.28 gpf dual flush options, meaning homeowners do not have to sacrifice innovation for sustainability. Convenient features include heated seat, nightlight, hands-free opening/closing and automatic flush, plus a touchscreen remote.

Prefer a high-functioning standard toilet with sustainable features? Kohler offers over 80 models that are 1.28 gpf or lower. For example, Kohler Highline 1.0 gpf toilets feature Kohler’s Revolution 360 technology, an advanced flushing system that uses a powerful swirling motion to thoroughly rinse the bowl.

Designed for those who view the home as a foundation for well-being, Kohler Health’s Dekoda seamlessly integrates into the bathroom to deliver deeper awareness of daily health. The device discretely and seamlessly attaches to the toilet and provides insights into hydration, gut health patterns and blood detection, helping homeowners better understand their bodies through the rhythms of everyday life.

Cast-iron craftsmanship that’s built to last

Longevity is one of the most sustainable design principles, and Kohler’s cast-iron products embody that idea. Made in Kohler, Wisconsin, from at least 80% recycled materials, these pieces are exceptionally durable. The Artifacts freestanding bath adds rich color and heritage charm, while the Whitehaven farmhouse kitchen sink brings timeless durability to the kitchen with resistance against chipping, cracking or burning.

Faucets that balance beauty and water efficiency

A faucet refresh can instantly uplift a kitchen or bath — especially when paired with water-saving technology. Kohler’s Artifacts, Occasion and Components bathroom faucets are WaterSense^® certified at 1.2 gpm, combining elegant silhouettes with thoughtful engineering.

For those looking to reduce reliance on single-use plastic bottles, the Aquifer 4-in-1 beverage system delivers instant filtered still, chill, sparkling and near boiling water at the touch of a button. The faucet integrates directly into kitchen design while helping households cut down on waste. Cleaner, better-tasting water can also support hydration, a core pillar of overall wellness.

A one-stop shop for a greener renovation

Whether you’re integrating recycled materials, adopting smart-water technologies, introducing wellness devices that offer peace of mind, or updating fixtures for greater efficiency, Kohler unifies these sustainable solutions under one roof so you can create a harmonious, eco-minded home throughout.

For more ideas and inspiration, explore sustainable options at Kohler.com.

2026-04-01T16:01:01

(BPT) – If you’ve been pulled toward your phone more than your books lately, you’re not alone. According to a new nationwide survey conducted by Atomik Research and commissioned by ThriftBooks, 61% of U.S. adults believe they could maintain a habit of reading just a few pages a day for up to six months. However, 57% say the hardest part of reading is simply getting started.

The good news is you can easily make reading a fun and relaxing daily habit. According to behavioral scientist Jon Levy, a few small changes in your environment can make reading feel easier, cozier and more irresistible with a book-focused spring cleaning.

Here are his top eight tips to refresh your space and bring more books back into your daily life during spring cleaning season.

Start by decluttering your nightstand

Your nightstand sets the tone for your wind-down routine, so keep it simple and book-friendly. All you really need is your current bedtime book, a lamp, glasses (if you use them) and maybe a glass of water. Levy also suggests moving your phone out of arm’s reach or better yet, out of the bedroom entirely.

In the morning, you can set yourself up for another successful screen-free night by placing your book on your pillow. This small but powerful trick ensures that your book is the first thing that greets you every night.

Clear the digital clutter from your relaxing spots

Think about the places where scrolling tends to happen, like your couch, bed and desk. These “scroll traps” often turn into mindless phone zones. A simple way to break the cycle is to place books in those spots and set a gentle rule for yourself: read for 10 minutes before you touch your phone.

Create a dedicated reading zone

Choose one cozy corner — a spot by the window or a nook in the bedroom — and make it your go-to reading spot. Outfit it with a chair, a warm light and the book you’re reading. Make sure to keep it free from clutter and screens so your brain can associate that space with calm and focus.

Set up a screen-free sanctuary

Beyond your reading corner, designate one area of your home as a 100% analog zone. Think soft blanket, warm light, a notebook, a book stack and a cup of tea. No screens allowed. As a helpful reminder, keep a little basket nearby where your phone can “rest” while you unwind.

Swap the spots of your phone and book

A simple but shockingly effective tip is to put a book where your phone usually lives. On your kitchen counter, for example, place a paperback and move your phone to an inconvenient place, like across the room or into a drawer. When reading becomes the easy option, you’ll naturally reach for it more often.

Let books take center stage

Scatter books in the places you pass through most often, like on the coffee table or by your favorite chair. Be sure to remove visual clutter that competes for attention, like stacks of mail or random gadgets. You can use small cues — like a blanket draped over an armchair, warm lighting or a tray for tea — to create a welcoming vibe.

Keep your setup effortless

Reading should feel like a treat, never a task. On low-energy days, make reading effortless with a reading-ready setup. Make sure there’s a blanket within reach, a bookmark handy and books where you can see them. Keep your phone tucked away.

Read in community

You don’t have to build your reading life alone. Support and shared excitement can help keep your reading momentum going long after you’ve decluttered your space.

Consider joining a book club, swapping reads with friends or signing up for a community activity like ThriftBooks’ 500 Billion Page Reading Challenge. This challenge is an invitation for Americans to read more with no deadlines or pressure. All you need to do is read a few pages a day.

“Americans didn’t stop loving books — we just got a bit distracted,” said Barbara Hagen, vice president of marketing at ThriftBooks. “The 500 Billion Page Challenge is about helping people reignite their passion for reading in a way that fits real life. This isn’t about guilt or giving up screens forever. It’s about rediscovering what reading gives us that nothing else does.”

To learn more and join the movement, visit ThriftBooks.com/Challenge.

This spring, rearrange your home and renew your love of reading

Renewing your love for reading doesn’t have to be difficult. Using Levy’s eight tips, you can give your home a spring makeover that encourages you to ditch the scroll for a story. Happy reading!

2026-03-31T12:01:00

(BPT) – When it’s time to replace your roof, what matters most? Some are more focused on the performance and warranty. Others are looking to elevate curb appeal with a new roof color. Whether your focus is on style or durability, Owens Corning ensures you don’t have to compromise on beauty or performance.

That’s why Owens Corning teamed up with Erin and Ben Napier — the husband-and-wife TV hosts and design duo from Laurel, Mississippi — to help educate and inspire homeowners to make confident roofing decisions.

Style + Strength: Erin and Ben Napier’s Guide to Confident Roofing Choices

Erin and Ben bring two distinct perspectives to the roof replacement conversation. Erin, a self-described “roof geek” with a fine arts degree, sees the roof as a bold design element that can transform a home’s curb appeal. She’s passionate about color and how it ties a home’s exterior together. Ben, on the other hand, approaches roofing with a craftsman’s eye for strength and performance. He focuses on how every component of the roof system works together to protect what matters most.

Through their partnership with Owens Corning Roofing, Erin and Ben offer style and design tips to help homeowners make confident, inspired decisions. Here are their top three tips for creating a roof you’ll really love™.

Tip #1: Consider Roof Color to Enhance Curb Appeal

Erin says a home’s roof color is often the most overlooked design element. Coordinating shingles with brick, siding and trim can make a cohesive statement for elevated curb appeal. She encourages homeowners to pay attention to the subtle color tones and hues that give a shingle depth and dimension.

While shingle color might seem simple at first glance, the blend of color granules in each option plays a big role in defining a home’s style. Erin recommends going beyond traditional grays, blacks and browns to explore bolder choices. For example, Evergreen Mist — a new shingle color in the Owens Corning TruDefinition^® Designer Duration^® line — captures the beauty of a mist-covered garden path with a mix of vibrant greens and blues, earthy tans and soft gray-browns. Other shingles in the TruDefinition^® Duration^® Designer line offer a range of tones, so homeowners can find the perfect match for their personal style.

Tip #2: Don’t Sacrifice Durability

Ben Napier knows that great design means nothing without lasting performance. That’s why he emphasizes the importance of durability when choosing a roof. The construction of a shingle can dramatically impact how well it protects your home. Owens Corning TruDefinition^® Duration^® Shingles feature SureNail^® Technology — a patented reinforced nailing line engineered with a tough, woven fabric. This innovation improves wind resistance, prevents nail blow-through and delivers outstanding fastener holding power. SureNail^® Technology is designed to withstand winds up to 130 mph and provides a triple layer of protection for added durability. Pair these shingles with the Owens Corning Total Protection Roofing System^® for a complete system that works together to help protect your home.

Tip #3: Find Your Inspiration

Ben and Erin believe that great ideas often start close to home. Ready to think about your roof differently? Erin suggests taking a drive around your neighborhood to spot colors and styles that catch your eye. Owens Corning calls this Roof Gawking^®— and it’s a fun way to discover what you love.

To make the process even easier, Owens Corning offers a variety of design tools and resources to help you feel confident in finding your perfect roof color. Visit www.findyourroofcolor.com for more tips from Erin and Ben and explore options for a roof that’s both stylish and strong.

*Erin and Ben Napier have been paid for their endorsement of Owens Corning Roofing products.

2026-03-26T08:01:00

(BPT) – For homeowners looking to refresh their home without taking on a major renovation and renters who are unable to make significant changes to their living spaces, affordable do-it-yourself (DIY) upgrades can be the best way to achieve a significant transformation.

While often overlooked, today’s advanced smart window treatments can be a quick and easy way to enhance comfort, convenience, energy efficiency and style in a single afternoon. DIY motorized shades that are controlled either by remote, voice or an app are becoming an increasingly popular choice for homeowners and renters.

A trusted brand that has been welcomed into American homes for more than a century is turning the heads of designers, home builders and consumers with a new smart shade that is revolutionizing the way we think about shades available at retail. GE smart shades are premium, reliable, game-changing products that deliver the sleek and modern look and feel of custom shades but can be installed by nearly anyone in five minutes or less.

One standout feature of GE smart shades is the clean design of its hardware. During installation, mounting hardware that can be secured into a wall with only three screws is tucked neatly out of sight, giving the shades a smooth, tailored finish that instantly elevates a room. Today, DIYers can choose from crisp white or modern gray fabric — available in blackout for bedrooms or translucent for soft filtered light — paired with durable aluminum trim for a premium, built-in feel.

Unlike manual shades, today’s smart shades deliver value beyond the hardware by providing software-driven control. As interior design trends veer toward more responsive, efficient and automated experiences in the home, smart control has quickly risen to the top of the priority list. GE smart shades can be controlled with simple voice commands or scheduled routines. Users can automate shade movements to enhance privacy, regulate indoor temperatures or manage natural light on a custom schedule. And for households that still enjoy a tactile option, a pre-paired remote allows for instant, no-app-required control.

GE smart shades also appeal strongly to DIY enthusiasts thanks to the quiet, rechargeable motor. Smooth, low-noise operation makes them ideal for bedrooms, nurseries and media rooms — spaces where serenity matters most. Many smart shades on the market now emphasize quiet, reliable motors as a key performance metric, reinforcing this feature as a meaningful advantage for everyday living. With long-lasting battery performance and simple USB-C charging in place, upkeep stays minimal.

Lastly, craftsmanship and peace of mind are major GE smart shade selling points. Assembled by hand in Charleston, South Carolina, and rigorously tested to ensure smooth and flawless operation, GE smart shades are backed by a two-year limited warranty. This commitment to quality for which GE-branded products are known is appreciated by DIYers investing their own money, time and energy into home improvements.

GE smart shades are available now at Amazon.com and Shop.GELighting.com in sizes that are pre-cut for today’s most common window sizes. With prices starting at $299.99, the shades are within reach for homeowners and renters seeking to boost both function and style without calling in a contractor.

Whether refreshing a single room or giving the whole home a modern edge, shades are quickly emerging as one of the most rewarding — and surprisingly simple — DIY upgrades. All signs point toward smart motorized shades as the future of window treatments for homeowners and renters looking to get more from their shades.

2026-03-26T01:01:00

(BPT) – Creating your dream backyard starts with a clear plan and the right materials. A well-designed patio turns any outdoor area into a comfortable extension of your home — perfect for relaxing, entertaining and spending more time outside.

Whether you’re planning a full backyard transformation or refreshing a smaller outdoor space, the most successful patio designs focus on a few key elements:

• A strong foundation: Durable materials like concrete pavers offer long-lasting performance and design flexibility.
• Purposeful layout: Creating defined zones for dining, lounging and gathering helps your outdoor space function like an extension of your home.
• Integrated features: Fire pits, outdoor kitchens and seating walls add comfort and usability when incorporated into the original design plan.
• Thoughtful style choices: Coordinated colors, textures and patterns help create a cohesive look that complements your home.

With its innovative range of flexible paver systems, integrated fire features and modular outdoor kitchen options, Belgard^® helps homeowners create patios that feel cohesive, functional and tailored to their lifestyles.

Here are backyard outdoor living space ideas to help plan your next project.

Start with a smart foundation

Every great patio space begins from the ground up. A strong, well-built foundation creates the opportunity to design an outdoor patio that evolves with your needs. The surface material you choose influences not only how the space looks, but also how it performs over time. High-quality concrete pavers provide a balance of durability and design flexibility, helping homeowners create patios that stand up to weather, foot traffic and changing rhythms of everyday life.

When it comes to outdoor living, it’s more than just a block of concrete. Because pavers are highly engineered and installed as individual units over a prepared base, they’re easier to move or repair compared to traditional poured concrete slabs.

Pavers also inspire creative freedom. From sleek contemporary profiles to textured, stone-inspired finishes, Belgard’s product collections include modular pavers in a wide range of sizes, shapes and finishes that support modern or traditional home styles. Combined with features like the Belgard Elements™ line of outdoor kitchen accessories and fire and water features, these materials help transform a simple patio into your dream backyard space.

Design with clear purpose and seamless flow

The most successful backyard patios begin with a vision of how the space will function. Larger yards benefit from clearly defined zones, much like rooms inside your home. For example, a dining area positioned near the house keeps entertaining easy and convenient, while a lounge area around a fire pit creates a natural gathering point.

To better imagine how to use your space, try visual planning tools like Belgard Rooms with Augmented Reality (AR) to help homeowners and contractors explore layout possibilities. Seeing how patios, pathways and desired features fit the overall outdoor environment makes it easier to create natural flow and proportion. For smaller backyards, a thoughtful layout matters even more.

Design decisions also impact the look and feel of any space. For example, a consistent color palette and streamlined paver selection helps compact patios feel more expansive. Larger-format pavers reduce visual clutter, while directional patterns like running bond or diagonal layouts can enhance spaciousness.

Integrate outdoor patio features from the beginning

A truly functional patio considers more than just the surface. Fire pits, fireplaces and outdoor kitchens should be incorporated into the original plan, rather than treated as afterthoughts. Designing these elements together ensures balanced proportions, seamless transitions and long-term usability.

Contractors use modular outdoor kitchen systems and coordinated wall elements to build integrated spaces efficiently, offering a polished, intentional result for homeowners. Whether you’re adding a built-in grill island or seating wall around a fire feature, Belgard’s Artforms™ collection helps you tie your space together in a functional, aesthetically cohesive way.

Planning for future additions is also key: A patio designed with later expansion in mind protects your investment and allows the outdoor space to adapt as your lifestyle changes.

Use pattern and color to shape experience

Once the layout is established, pattern selection is the next big decision. Herringbone patterns offer strength for high-traffic areas, while modular layouts introduce architectural interest. Circular or radial designs can anchor fire pits and create a welcoming focal point within your patio plan.

Color coordination is equally important. Warm earth tones create a cozy traditional atmosphere, while cooler grays and blended neutrals lend a more contemporary feel. Coordinating patio colors with your home’s siding, brick or roofing also helps an outdoor space feel integrated rather than added on.

Texture is one design choice that’s often overlooked. Belgard’s Papyrus™ is a paver with a texture reminiscent of handmade textiles or dried earth. Papyrus embodies the idea of biophilic design, which uses nature-inspired elements within built environments. Papyrus blends with the surrounding landscape, offering the look and feel of hand-tooled stone.

Decorative details can further personalize design. Subtle borders, banding or custom accents introduce character without overwhelming the overall aesthetic. These enhancements allow homeowners to express their style while maintaining durability and cohesion.

Now, Papyrus Artforms blends the hand-tooled, organic Papyrus texture with Belgard’s Artforms modular panel system. Artforms offers endless design flexibility for outdoor kitchens, seating walls, fire features and garden accents, adding durable functionality with lasting visual appeal. Its modularity makes outdoor spaces easy to expand or update in the future, achieving high-end results across projects, both big and small, with texture and detail.

Create an outdoor space that reflects your lifestyle

The best backyard patios are personalized. Some homeowners prioritize entertaining and open gathering spaces. Others prefer an intimate nook with layered lighting and comfortable seating. Customize your space and maintain visual harmony with carefully selected modular paver systems and coordinated hardscape elements.

Designing your dream backyard starts with thoughtful planning and premium materials. With the right foundation, layout and finishing details, your backyard patio can become the heart of your home, built for connection, comfort and everyday living.

Visit Belgard.com to get started today.